Capital Region & The Blue Ridge Mountains

Days 1-3  Washington DC  
Start your trip with a few days exploring the USA’s capital city and discover magnificent buildings and monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial and the White House. It’s also home to excellent museums including 19 Smithsonian Institutions.  

Day 4  Washington DC to Shenandoah NP  
Pick up your car and head through pretty Virginia countryside to Shenandoah National Park. It’s a stunning region of valleys, peaks, woodland and waterfalls that forms part of the mighty Blue Ridge Mountains range. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and catch a glimpse of the park’s famous black bears.  

Days 5-6  Shenandoah NP  
Running down the length of the park is Skyline Drive, a dramatic 105 mile National Scenic Byway. A 35mph speed limit allows for a leisurely meander and time to absorb the wonderful views. As well as scenic drives the national park is also home to 500 miles of hiking trails, including part of the Appalachian Trail. A short distance from the park you’ll find Luray Caverns – these huge and impressive caves are well worth a visit.  

Day 7  Shenandoah NP to Roanoke
Continue southwards and as you leave the national park join the northern stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway. This scenic drive   along winding roads follows the mountain ridges and offers amazing vistas.  

Day 8  Roanoke to Richmond  
Depart the ‘Capital of the Blue Ridge’ and head to Richmond. This historic city lies on the banks of the James River and has lots of Civil War history to uncover.  

Day 9  Richmond to Virginia Beach  
Drive to the coast for some fun on the beach.  

Day 10  Virginia Beach
Unwind on the world’s longest pleasure beach and stroll along the three mile boardwalk, lined with restaurants and bars.  

Day 11  Virginia Beach to Cambridge  
Cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, travel into Maryland and arrive in Cambridge. Settled in 1684, this is one of the oldest cities in the country. Explore the town’s riverside location on the banks of the Choptank River or simply relax at your resort hotel.  

Days 12-13  Eastern Shore  
Spend your days exploring the bays and beaches of Maryland’s beautiful Eastern Shore. Take to the water on a boat trip or head to the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge for a chance to spot bald eagles.  Try some fresh crab – this Maryland delicacy is bountiful in the Chesapeake Bay.  

Day 14  Cambridge to Washington DC  
One final morning to relax by the bay before driving back to the capital.